The idol of comfort.

Our culture despises delayed gratification. After-pay, Netflix, scrolling through social media multiple times per day. The list goes on. We live in a culture that wants to optimise, take shortcuts, and avoid challenging tasks. We prioritise short-term enjoyment over long-term goals. Why? A lot of the time, the answer is convenience or comfort.

This idol of comfort can lead to apathy, boredom, and a sense of purposelessness. When we are lazy and complacent, we miss out on the opportunities to grow, learn, and serve, (Colossians 3:23-24).

However, a twin error emerges when we are tempted to replace God as our provider (Genesis 22:14) and step into workaholism. We become addicted to productivity – to the hustle. The world says hustle, whereas God says, “strive to enter my rest” (Hebrews 4:11, Matthew 6:26-34). Our idol of comfort emerges in the form of taking control of God's ways and his provision.

The habit of diligence is an antidote against sloth and helps us counteract the idol of comfort. Diligence involves a persistent effort to do what is good and right, even when difficult or unpleasant. It requires self-discipline, focus, and a commitment to excellence. In the book of Proverbs, diligence is praised as a key to success and fulfilment, (Proverbs 13:4). By cultivating the habit of diligence, we can overcome the idol of sloth and live a life of purpose and productivity (Proverbs 21:5).

The parable of the gold bags found in Matthew 25:14-30 urges us to approach our work and responsibilities diligently while acknowledging that their ultimate service is to God and their reward is in eternity. It prompts us to repent for moments of laziness and wastefulness, seeking God's forgiveness and grace. We recognise the need to rely on him as our provider rather than shouldering the burden of self-sufficiency.

Prayer Point: Lord, I repent of the idol of comfort and pray that you give me the strength to form the habit of diligence in my life. I pray that I would find a balance between workaholic and laziness that gives you glory in my service to you.